John Barrasso

I see this as an acknowledgement that we need a more robust and more fair state side program.

So do you believe that returning to that original intent of the law to provide 60 percent of the funding for state purposes that that will lead to a greater economic revival in local, rural, as well as urban communities?

I would like to also thank you for this opportunity to testify.

Tribal transportation is essential for economic development and public safety in Indian Country.

I had a final question on the predictions that EIA makes on the average retail price of electricity. It predicted it will increase as much as, I think, 28 percent by the year 2040.

An increase in U.S. exports of natural gas would have a number of mostly beneficial effects on natural gas producers, unemployment, on U.S. geopolitical security and the environment.

Would you discuss the impact that lifting sanctions on Iran would have on American workers in the oil and gas industry?

Specifically they explain that U.S. natural gas supply builds liquidity in the global gas market, reduces European dependence on the current primary suppliers of Russia and Iran.

Our young people shouldn't have to move far away just to make ends meet and raise a family.

We will also learn about specific opportunities to lift Tribal Nations out of poverty.

We must be responsible stewards of the land when we develop our resources, but we must also be responsible stewards of our children's futures.

I'd like to thank Chairman Barrasso as well as members of the Committee for allowing me to speak here this morning.

For over a dozen years Congress has steadily provided the Forest Service with new authorities that allow but do not require the agency to actively manage our forests.

The condition of forest health, of rural economies and wildlife habitat are some of the issues that I plan to continue addressing as Chairman of the Public Lands Subcommittee.

We know there is excess material needing to be harvested to prevent fires, to improve habitat, to create jobs.

Last month, I along with Chairman Murkowski and others, called on the Administration to issue a determination that crude oil exports to Mexico for consumption in Mexico are in the national interest.

Crude oil exports will also constitute an important strategic act of support for our allies in Europe.

What kind of job losses would you expect to see if the Administration actually chooses to not act?

U.S. crude exports will have the effect of reinforcing pressure on Russia's energy security.

I think in the 1980s Ronald Reagan issued determinations that crude oil exports to Canada for consumption in Canada are in our national interest.

I especially want to thank Senator Tester for his leadership on the important issue of Indian housing.

The reauthorization should include, as Senator Barrasso's bill currently does, the affirmation and respect for the negotiated-rulemaking process.

Reauthorization of NAHASDA has been an important priority for Indian Country.

The United States is responsible for improving Indian people's housing conditions.

The NAHASDA Reauthorization Act of 2015, if passed, would be a big stride in the federal government's fulfillment of its trust responsibility towards tribes and TDHEs.